Valentine's Day dinner for two

Hot, healthy romantic recipes

Valentine's Day means chocolate, candy and rich menus that are normally not low-calorie. To dieters, Valentine's Day can mark the beginning of the end of their New Year's weight loss resolution. But it doesn't have to be that way! You can spice up your diet with this romantic menu for two without compromising your weight loss goals.

Healthy romantic recipes

Hot Pepper Pecans Appetizer

Makes 8 servings (but you only need 2)

Hot and spicy nuts are the perfect pre-meal nibbler to whet the appetite for a romantic dinner and dessert.

2. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring several times. Be sure not to overcook. Cooking is all about tastes and smells; use your senses to tell you when they are done!

3. Remove from oven and sprinkle with soy sauce and hot pepper seasoning. Use a broad spatula to turn and coat pecans. Let cool in pan for 5 minutes. Finish cooling on double thickness of paper towels.

Scintillating Roasted Carrot Soup

Serves 6

Seductively savor this thick and hearty soup, rich in beta-carotene and garlic - a reputed aphrodisiac.